The history of Roing and the broader Lower Dibang Valley is deeply intertwined with the ancient traditions of its indigenous communities, primarily the Idu Mishmi and the Adi tribes. These communities have inhabited the region for centuries, maintaining distinct cultural identities, animist belief systems, and complex social structures isolated from mainland Indian empires by the formidable geography of the Himalayas.
Historically, the region has significant mythological and archaeological ties. Located just south of Roing is Bhismaknagar, a prominent archaeological site featuring the ruins of a fortress dating back to the 12th–16th centuries. It is associated with the Chutiya Kingdom that ruled the region. According to local lore and Hindu mythology, Bhismaknagar was the capital of King Bhismaka, the father of Princess Rukmini, who became the chief consort of Lord Krishna. This has made the area a site of historical intrigue and pilgrimage.
In modern history, Roing was administered as part of the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) during the British colonial period and the early decades of Indian independence. The modern district of Lower Dibang Valley was created in 2001 when the larger Dibang Valley district was bifurcated into Upper and Lower districts for better administrative efficiency, with Roing designated as the headquarters of the newly formed Lower Dibang Valley.
